Water Saving for Seniors

A decade of below average rainfall and the ongoing effects of climate change have seen Ballarat enter stage four water restrictions. This has had an impact on many aspects of our life.

Gardening to many is an important recreational activity, with great pride being taken in the appearance of our gardens. It is not only a hobby but a passion to many members of the community, however the drought has proved to be a challenging aspect when maintaining our gardens.

Under stage four water restrictions, people have been encouraged to use greywater for the maintenance of their gardens. However, many elderly people have been injured attempting to carry heavy water buckets from their kitchen, bathroom and laundry and are putting themselves at an unnecessary risk.

• there is no obligation to recycle household water - it is an individual choice
• Council encourages the elderly and people with a disability to seek assistance from family members, friends, neighbours and gardeners when transporting recycled water
• don't hesitate to ask for assistance - your health and safety is top priority
• know your limits - only attempt to carry or lift a weight that is comfortable for you to walk with
• use smaller, more manageable buckets to carry your greywater to the garden
• to avoid serious injury, always use sturdy plastic containers instead of glass or china which can more easily break
• we can all do our bit to save water, and if we work together it can be done sensibly and avoid any chance of injury
• seek more information - there are new water saving inventions, such as the water wheelie bins by Ballarat West Rotary Club; the bins are designed to make the transportation of water from the house to the garden much easier.
• keep a proactive approach and don't be afraid to ask for help to ensure your own wellbeing when keeping your
  garden green.

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